Look out for the white tailed eagle; UK's biggest bird of prey returns to North Yorkshire

Fish eagles on North York Moors

WHITE tailed eagles not seen in England for over 240 years have been visiting the North York Moors after making a remarkable 300 mile trip.

The bird, also known as the fish eagle, was the UK’s largest bird of prey with a huge wingspan measuring up to two and a half metres.

Forestry England and the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation have been leading a project to reintroduce them into the country, releasing the first group on the Isle of Wight last year.

Through GPS tracking they’ve been keeping an eye on the young birds as they made their first major trips around the country.

Two of them, G318 and G393 travelled up through the middle of Britain landing and roosting for a while in the the North York Moors National Park. Now campaigners are appealing for people to keep an eye out for the special birds and if possible get more photographs of them.

The young eagles' tails are ridged with black, they have a prominent hooked yellow beak and piercing golden eyes with yellow legs and talons.

The Roy Dennis Foundation said: “We may be living in strange times, but the natural world continues as normal. The data from the satellite transmitters provides a fascinating insight into the movements of the young eagles during a period key for them learning the landscape.

“Young white-tailed Eagles are known to explore widely in their first two years, before usually returning to their natal area to breed. If you are lucky enough to see a one over your garden, please send us the details.

"Given the way these birds readily travel over towns, villages and even cities, there is a chance of seeing one wherever you live so keep looking up, but please stay home and stay safe.”

To report sightings go to www.roydennis.org/2020/04/06/eagle-wanderings/

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